Dorothy Sava

Dorothy (Riccio) Dantona Sava, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, in Chelsea, MA, at the age of 91.
Born on September 28, 1934, in Boston, MA,
Raised in the vibrant community of East Boston Dorothy was a proud graduate of East Boston High School.
Her keen sense of style and passion for helping others look and feel their best led her to a successful career as the owner of Dottie's Beauty Salon in Davis Square, Somerville for many years.
Dottie was predeceased by her beloved husbands, Joseph Dantona and Frank Sava. She was the loving mother of Joseph Dantona and his wife Jan of Nahant, and the late Diane Schlesinger and her husband Kenny of Stoneham. Cherished grandmother of Kristy Murphy & her husband Michael, Kelly Snow & her husband Kyle, Michael Dantona & his wife Kendra and Kaitlyn Dantona. Caring great grandmother of Isabella Murphy, Caleb Snow, Liam Snow and Keegan Murphy. Loving sister of Anna Avellino & her late husband John, John Riccio & his wife Rosemary of Duxbury and the late Sonny Ricco, Josie Crescenzi & her late husband Dante and the late Joe Riccio & his wife Lillian of FL.
She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as gathering her family for Sunday dinners and celebrating holidays with festive cheer. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious scents of her home-cooked meals.
Dorothy's zest for life took her on many travels to beautiful destinations such as Puerto Rico, Aruba, St. Thomas, Hawaii, and, one of her favorites, Las Vegas.
Funeral services will be private.